The legendary Red Devils boss completed a host shrewd transfers during his time at the Old Trafford helm.

But Maldini, who played for Milan for his entire career, was one target Sir Alex couldn’t land.

Ferguson said: "I did try but, when I met his father [ex-coach Cesare], he was quite formidable.

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1 / 105

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1. Cristiano Ronaldo. £12.3m from Sporting Lisbon - 10/10. From the start it was clear that he was an exciting player, but nobody could have foreseen how lethal he would become in front of goal. A true legend of world football

“I got a shake of the head and that was all”

Man United boss Sir Alex Ferguson on Paolo Maldini

"I got a shake of the head and that was all.

"He said 'my grandfather is Milan, my father is Milan, I am Milan and my son is Milan... forget it!’"

Maldini enjoyed a glittering career with Milan, making over 900 appearances before his retirement aged 40 in 2009.

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Paolo Maldini insists he would never have left AC Milan for Man United

The Italy legend says he was unaware of the interest from United and insists he would never have left Milan regardless.

He said: "The good part about it is that he [Cesare] has never talked to me about it.